Another perspective that we need to keep in mind about this parable, particularly by those of us who enjoy security and comfort in this world, is expressed in a beautiful poem by the late Archbishop of Recife, Dom Helder Camara.
I pray incessantly
for the conversion
of the prodigal son's brother.
Ever in my ear
rings the dread warning
"this one [the prodigal] has awoken
from his life of sin.
When will the other [the older brother]
awaken
from his virtue?"
See Helder Camara's book, A THOUSAND REASON FOR LIVING.